JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — It was a series of marches that helped changed the country.
Walking fifty miles from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, put pressure on President Lyndon Johnson, prompting him to sign the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
Now, Congress is pushing for a bill that would award the Congressional Gold Medal to those who participated.
“It’s time. It’s time to honor them. Here we are at the crossroads of freedom and equality once again – 50 years after Selma,” Chevara Orrin said.
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Orrin’s dad, James Bevel, was on the front lines with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He was a key strategist who not only helped stage the Selma movement, but planned the March on Washington. Recently, the movie “Selma” came out highlighting that time. Bevel was played by a popular Chicago rapper and actor.
“Exciting to see Common portray our father, but also exciting because I know the filmmaker,” Orrin continued.
Historians like TaKeia Anthony say the work of King, Bevel and others should not be taken lightly.
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“If the Voting Rights Act hadn’t passed, then you’re looking at immigrants coming over for their right to vote, they wouldn’t have had it either. So, African-American history is U.S. history,” Anthony said.
Orrin couldn’t be more proud. She plans to continue her father’s legacy.
Orrin is traveling to Selma this weekend for the commemoration and anniversary (of the march?). She will be walking the same path her father did.
Two people were killed during the Selma marches, including a white priest from Boston. Hundreds were beaten and injured on what’s known as Bloody Sunday.